By Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba has raised the alarm over a surge in election-related violence as campaigns enter the final month ahead of Uganda’s January 2026 general elections.
Addressing journalists at Police Headquarters in Naguru on Monday, Byakagaba said while many candidates have largely complied with the law, certain actors, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP), have repeatedly clashed with security forces, putting public safety at risk.
Latest
UPDF Tests New Japanese Crop Technology to Boost Food Production
Uganda’s 40-Year War With HIV: From ‘Slim’ to Survival
Armed Attacker Raids Njeru Home, Escapes With Doctor’s Child
Police Unleash New Fleet to Tighten Grip on Election Security
One Killed, Several Injured As Police NUP Clash in Iganga
CDF Muhoozi, Belgian Envoy Discuss Stronger Security Cooperation
Clever J Hospitalised After Nakasongola Crash, Son Suffers Double Leg Fractures
“We are just a month and a few days to the general elections. I commend Ugandans, the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and candidates for largely complying with the law, save for some notable incidents,” he said.
Byakagaba pointed to repeated violations of agreed-upon rally routes and venues. Some processions have spilled into trading centres, markets, and major roads, creating disorder and disrupting normal business. Reckless driving, riding dangerously on motorcycles, and carrying stones or weapons to rallies have also been reported.
He listed recent incidents, including an attack on police officers in Lira on October 28, an assault on a civilian in Abim on October 29, stone-pelting at Kawempe North and South rallies on November 24, a campaign halted in Kayunga on November 27 for violating curfew, and a violent clash in Iganga on November 28 that left one civilian dead.
Byakagaba called the Iganga fatality “unfortunate” and stressed that no political activity justifies the loss of life. “Our duty is to protect and save life,” he said.
The police chief warned that acts such as incitement, unauthorised processions, defying rally schedules, destruction of property, assaulting security personnel, and misuse of artificial intelligence will face decisive action. Political parties were also cautioned against forming private security outfits, which he said are the responsibility of state agencies.
Byakagaba urged candidates, parties, supporters, civil society, and the media to exercise their rights responsibly. “We will protect the constitutional rights to campaign, vote, and participate, but we shall enforce law and order firmly to maintain peace,” he said.
As the campaigns intensify, the police say they remain committed to ensuring security and public order to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming elections.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel for more… https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6TpGqLtOjKB7S8OI3d
